Jewish Camping

Jewish camping is one of the most powerful Jewish identity-building experiences you can give your child. It emphasizes Jewish values and traditions and encourages campers to connect to their own identity and the larger Jewish community. At camp, Jewish and Israeli culture is celebrated through song, food, art and dance.

CSR Camp Connect believes that there is a Jewish camp that is right for every child. Each camp offers a unique program that is accessible and enjoyable for all campers. Whether they’re sharing stories in their bunks, learning about greening initiatives or playing a sport, campers explore what Judaism means to them in a safe, nurturing and fun environment.

David & Iris Sampliner Youth Leadership Development Fund

​Once again this year the Sampliner Youth Leadership Development Fund is making camp scholarships available to young people who are planning to attend the Eisner Camp or the Crane Lake Camp in Massachusetts, Kutz Camp in Warwick, NY, or the NFTY Summer Program in Israel. These programs are run by the Union for Reform Judaism, the umbrella organization of all reform congregations in the United States and Canada. These scholarships are not based on need.

Since the scholarship funds are limited, and were originally intended to support attendance at URJ Camps, priority will be given for attendance at those camps. All applications are due by February 8; if there are funds remaining for other Jewish Camps, they may be honored.

The Eisner Camp and the Crane Lake Camp offer programs for children seven to seventeen years of age. Each day includes sports, recreation, swimming, theater, crafts, and programs designed to foster a solid Jewish living experience.

Every summer, teens from all over North America become leaders at the NFTY Leadership Academy at Kutz Camp in Warwick, NY. Teens come to join this college campus style community, selecting experiences in theater, song leading, visual arts, Jewish studies, social action, youth group leadership programming, and more.

Thousands of Reform high school and college youth have enjoyed summers in Israel. NFTY combines travel, learning, and Jewish identity building in Israel, while ensuring the highest standards of health, safety and security.

Scholarships are available in denominations of $250 or $500. Applications should be made to the Fund c/o Iris & David Sampliner. For further information call the Sampliners at 914-939-0349.

The experience of a summer immersed in Judaism cannot be too highly praised. Youngsters who attend these URJ programs come back enthusiastic, involved, and furnish us with an outstanding corps of young leaders for our synagogue.